NLEX upsets defending champs SMB, 85-84

NLEX stunned the defending PBA Philippine Cup champions, San Miguel Beer, with an 85-84 victory, rallying from a double-digit deficit.

The Road Warriors secured the win despite the absence of star player Robert Bolick, who was in the United States to mourn his father's passing.

NLEX responded with a 10-2 run to take an 83-78 advantage, with JB Bahio's free throws, drawn off a Don Trollano foul, extending NLEX's lead.

However, Trollano answered with a rare four-point play to cut the deficit to just one, 85-84, with 11 seconds left.

Andreas Cahilig then fouled Bahio, who missed both free throws, but NLEX managed to hold off the Beermen's final push.

Brandon Ramirez and Jonnel Policarpio led NLEX in scoring with 16 points each, while Kevin Alas added 13.

June Mar Fajardo paced San Miguel with 18 points and 15 rebounds, while Don Trollano added 17 points.